Spyfest (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Spyfest is a board game released in 2020 by Hobby World. Designed by Alexandr Ushan, this party game is set in the world of spies and secret agents, where players take on different roles with asymmetric information to deduce who their allies and enemies are.

Game Components of Spyfest

Player cards: Each player has a unique character card, either historical or fantasy-based.

Spy cards: Two different decks of spy cards.

Action cards: Seven action cards per team to be shared among players.

Object cards: Cards representing secret objects known by the spy and their team.

Pawn and board: For tracking player positions and unique round rules.

Rulebook: Includes detailed instructions and special rules for each round.

How To Setup Spyfest

To set up Spyfest, players split into two teams. Each team selects a spy, who knows a secret object that their teammates also know. The non-spy players receive character cards and the game board is prepared with the pawns and relevant decks. The setup involves distributing action cards among the teams and ensuring each player understands their role and the unique rules for the round based on the pawn’s position.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Team-based gameplay: Players are divided into two teams.

Spy identification: The objective is for the teams to guess the identity of the spy from a list of possible candidates.

Object clues: The spy uses the secret object to make connections to their character.

Action cards: Teams use shared action cards to aid in the guessing process.

Round-specific rules: Each round has unique rules based on the pawn’s position.

Timer: Rounds can end if the spy runs out of information to provide within a minute.

Player Experience

Playing Spyfest can be a mixed bag. The game attempts to create a tense and creative environment where players must quickly deduce the spy’s identity. However, the gameplay often succumbs to awkward silence and complexity. The numerous special rules and the need to remember and use action cards correctly can make the game feel cluttered and less engaging. The lack of a timer that adds real tension, unlike in similar games like Spyfall, makes the rounds feel less urgent.

Pros

Creative challenge: Using the secret object to make connections to the character can be a fun and creative challenge.

Unique mechanic: The game’s use of two different decks of spies and action cards adds a layer of strategy.

Social interaction: Encourages teamwork and deduction.

Cons

Complex rules: Multiple unique rules per round can be overwhelming.

Awkward silence: Rounds can become silent and less engaging if players struggle to provide clues.

Representation issues: Some characters and representations may be offensive or insensitive.

Lengthy setup: Distributing action cards and understanding round-specific rules can be time-consuming.

Personal Thoughts on Spyfest

Spyfest is for those who enjoy party games and are looking for a unique detective-style experience. However, it may not be the best fit for players who prefer streamlined rules and high-tension gameplay. The game’s complexity and potential for awkwardness might make it less appealing to some, especially when compared to other deduction games like Spyfall. Despite this, it can still offer moments of creative challenge and social interaction for those willing to navigate its intricacies.

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